Heat spreader hole pin 1 identifier

Abstract

A new method is provided to identify semiconductor devices whereby the invention provides for a shallow depression on the backside of the heat sink of the ball grid array package. This shallow depression or hole can be used for visual and optical inspection of the device orientation.

What is claimed is:  
     
       1. A ball grid array assembly having a metal heatsink, the ball grid array assembly comprising: 
       a square or rectangular shaped heat sink having a thickness, whereby said heat sink further has a die attach surface in addition to having a marking surface, whereby heat sink identification data is typically provided on said marking surface of said heat sink; and  
       an indentation provided in said marking surface, whereby said indentation is used to determine orientation of said BGA array assembly, wherein an indentation has been provided in said marking surface of said square or rectangular shaped heat sink, whereby said indentation is preferably located at one or more corners of said square or rectangular shaped heat sink, whereby said indentation is a removal of said heat sink material that penetrates said heat sink to a depth of between about 30 and 70% of the thickness of said square or rectangular shaped heat sink.  
     
     
       2. The assembly of  claim 1  wherein said square or rectangular shaped heat sink and said indentation are preferably used for Flex Enhanced BGA (FEBGA) or Enhanced BGA (EBGA) devices. 
     
     
       3. The assembly of  claim 1  wherein said die attach surface of said heatsink and said marking surface of said heatsink have been black oxide plated. 
     
     
       4. The assembly of  claim 1  wherein said a square or rectangular shaped heat sink contains copper.